Failure to predict storm: PM directs Met Dept to submit report

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has sought an explanation from the Pakistan Meteorological Department over its failure to forecast the June 1 thunderstorm that hit Islamabad, Punjab and parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

In a letter issued, the premier seeks an explanation from the Director General (DG) Ghulam for neglecting his duty.

The prime minister – undergoing a cardiac treatment in London – was perturbed by the widespread damage and loss of precious lives caused by the high-intensity thunderstorm on June 1.

The letter said that the thunderstorm was even visible to the ‘naked eye’ in Islamabad by 4pm.

Despite modern equipment and technology available to it, the Meteorological Department has failed to either forecast or to issue an adequate warning, regarding the impending storm, which resulted in the loss of so many precious lives, injuries, and damages to property and installations, it said.

The letter asked the DG to submit a report and his explanation for the neglect of duty, for the information of the Prime Minister.

Around a dozen people were reportedly killed in Rawalpindi, Islamabad, and adjoining areas, while around 70 injured in storm-related incidents. Around a similar number of deaths and injuries were reported from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Falling trees damaged many cars, a fire broke out in shops at the Federal Capital’s fruit market, while a large number of flights had to be diverted.